The current piracy level in the UK remains at a staggering 27%.

Source: BSA/IDC piracy report 2005

Below are ten simple steps you should use to make sure you are buying legitimate software:

• Buy only from reputable dealers
• Get a written quote listing hardware/software specification and version
• Make sure you get an itemised invoice giving details of all hardware and software supplied
• Make sure you get software licences in electronic or paper format - these are important
• Once you have bought your hardware do not allow dealers to install software onto your computer without them providing licences, etc
• Remember even Shareware must be deleted or purchased after the initial evaluation period
• If possible buy from a dealer recommended by the publisher
• Make sure that you understand that bundled" software may come pre-installed on your computer and you may not receive the media
• If in doubt ask for help
• Contact The Federation

Beware...

• If there are no relevant software licence documents;
  
• If the artwork on the media and packaging looks unprofessional;
  
• If there is somebody else's details on the registration screens;
  If the dealer is refusing to give you product the ID/ Serial number;
  If the software is being sold for a much lower price than it should be.
  
  

State of Software Licensing Compliance & Piracy/b>
29th July, London.